Deutsche Post subsidiary StreetScooter GmbH and Ford-Werke GmbH are entering a partnership for the manufacturing of battery-electric delivery vehicles.

Deutsche Post has already designed and produced a smaller van, the emission-free StreetScooter. Now both partners are working on a larger vehicle type using the chassis of the Ford Transit to provide the technical basis. It will be equipped with a battery-electric drivetrain and fitted with a special body construction based on Deutsche Post and DHL Paket specifications.

Production is slated to begin in July 2017, and at least 2,500 vehicles are expected to support the urban traffic delivery of Deutsche Post and DHL Group before the end of 2018. With this volume, the joint project is expected to become the largest manufacturer of battery-electric medium-duty delivery vehicles in Europe.

"E-Mobility and innovative traffic solutions for urban areas are key focuses for us as we transform our business to meet future challenges," said Steven Armstrong, Group Vice President and President Europe, Middle East and Africa for Ford Motor Company.